Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's 4-0 victory over Laos has provided the team with the confidence and motivation to face a tougher challenge against seven-time champions Thailand in their next 2026 ASEAN Cup Group B match this Saturday. According to BERNAMA News Agency, interim head coach Tan Cheng Hoe emphasized the importance of the three points gained in the second Group B match at the Kuala Lumpur Football Stadium. The victory was crucial in helping Harimau Malaya maintain momentum and build team understanding as they prepare for the upcoming clash at Rajamangala Stadium, Bangkok. "As a coach, I'm very, very pleased with the result. We continue to get the momentum, getting back the understanding with the team," Cheng Hoe stated at a post-match press conference. He acknowledged that while the victory was significant, Malaysia will face a different level of challenge against Thailand, a team known for its quality players and home advantage. Cheng Hoe admitted that Malaysia encountered difficulties in the first ha lf against Laos, who defended compactly and prevented an early breakthrough. However, captain Paulo Josue's opening goal at the end of the first half was pivotal, providing Malaysia with the confidence needed to improve in the second half. The team then added three more goals to secure a convincing win. Man-of-the-match G Pavithran highlighted the support from his teammates, particularly the experienced players, as instrumental in boosting his confidence. Pavithran produced two assists during the match, contributing to Malaysia's dominant performance. He expressed hope that his teammates will focus on securing another three points against Thailand, which would enhance their chances of reaching the semi-finals. On the other side, Laos head coach Vladica Grujic reflected on his team's missed opportunities, lamenting their inability to convert two significant chances in the first half. Grujic believed the game could have taken a different turn if those opportunities had been capitalized on. He also praised Mal aysia's pace and movement, which continuously pressured his defenders and led to the four goals conceded. With this victory, Malaysia now leads Group B with six points, ahead of Thailand and Myanmar, both with three points, while the Philippines and Laos remain without any points.